The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame has officially unveiled its 2026 Hall of Fame Class, recognizing a diverse group of motorcycling icons whose influence spans custom culture, racing, land-speed competition, civil rights, legislative advocacy, and industry leadership.
Set against the backdrop of the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the 2026 inductees will be honored at the annual Hall of Fame Breakfast on August 12, 2026, in Deadwood, South Dakota. This year’s class reflects nearly every corner of the riding community—from Hollywood and NASCAR to Bonneville and the chopper underground.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dave Perewitz
A titan of custom motorcycle culture, Dave Perewitz has spent more than four decades shaping the look and feel of American V-twins. Known for his signature flame-painted designs and as a founder of Hamsters USA, Perewitz blends artistry with engineering precision.
Already inducted into the Museum in 2001 and the AMA Hall of Fame in 2003, Perewitz continues to support the custom community and charitable causes nationwide. His Lifetime Achievement recognition honors not just a career—but a continuing legacy of innovation and mentorship.
American Hero Award (25th Anniversary Special Recognition)
Tim Duffy
FDNY firefighter Tim Duffy became a symbol of American resilience on September 11, 2001, when he rode his 2000 Harley-Davidson Super Glide into Ground Zero to assist with rescue efforts. That image endures as one of the most powerful representations of motorcyclists answering the call.
After retiring due to health complications, Duffy founded 1 Soldier 1 Dog 1 Team, pairing rescue dogs with veterans and first responders battling PTSD. His induction marks a special one-time recognition tied to the Museum’s 25th anniversary.
Freedom Fighter Award
Dave Dwyr
For over 30 years, Dave Dwyr has championed riders’ rights through leadership roles with ABATE of Wisconsin and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. Known for organizing historic rallies and legislative initiatives, Dwyr has been instrumental in protecting motorcyclists’ freedoms nationwide.
His induction recognizes decades of advocacy that strengthened the voice of American riders.
Educational & Historical Preservation Award
Dave McGraw
A respected collector and preservationist, Dave McGraw curates one of the world’s most significant private motorcycle collections. His dedication to historical preservation extends through philanthropic support and the development of museum and learning center initiatives.
McGraw’s work ensures that future generations understand and appreciate the machines and stories that shaped motorcycling.
Paul Langley
As CEO of Parts Unlimited, Paul Langley has shaped the performance aftermarket landscape. With leadership roles at Dynojet, Vance & Hines, and S&S, Langley helped define the modern V-twin performance era while mentoring countless industry professionals.
Denis Manning
Land-speed legend Denis Manning is the founder of BUB Enterprises and a visionary behind some of the fastest motorcycles ever built. His streamliners have repeatedly claimed world-speed titles, including a jaw-dropping 350.8 MPH run in 2006—cementing his place in Bonneville history.
Robert Patrick
Best known as the T-1000 in Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Sheriff McDowell in 1923, Robert Patrick bridges Hollywood and hardcore motorcycle culture. A dedicated member of the Boozefighters MC and Harley-Davidson dealer owner, Patrick remains deeply involved in charity and rider advocacy.
Paul Smith
Graphic artist Paul Smith left an indelible mark on Harley-Davidson history when he designed the 1976 Liberty Edition Eagle logo. His artwork continues to resonate through fine art pieces and licensed H-D products, making him one of the most influential visual voices in American motorcycling.
Rusty Wallace
NASCAR champion Rusty Wallace, inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2013, has long been a two-wheel enthusiast. Through Southern Country Customs, Wallace builds high-end touring motorcycles and organizes major charity rides benefiting organizations like The NASCAR Foundation and Special Olympics South Dakota.
John Andrews
Founder of Andrews Products, John Andrews revolutionized Harley-Davidson performance with groundbreaking cam and gear designs that defined aftermarket engine building for decades.
Dave “Huggy Beahr” Hansen
A vintage authority and mentor, Hansen dedicated more than 50 years to preserving Indian and Harley-Davidson history at his Ventura, California shop.
“Indian Larry” DeSmedt
Legendary chopper craftsman Indian Larry rose to fame through televised build-offs and authentic, old-school fabrication. His influence continues to shape custom culture worldwide.
Mary McGee
Trailblazer Mary McGee became the first American woman to earn an FIM racing license and famously solo-finished the 1975 Baja 500, inspiring generations of female riders.
Bessie Stringfield
Known as the “Motorcycle Queen of Miami,” Bessie Stringfield was the first African-American woman to complete multiple solo cross-country rides in the 1930s and 1940s. A WWII courier and civil rights pioneer, her legacy represents courage and independence.
The Three Paisanos: Joe Teresi, Lou Kimzey, Mil Blair
Founders of Easyriders in 1970, the Three Paisanos created the most influential motorcycle publication of its era—elevating custom builders and defining the modern biker lifestyle.
With nearly 280 individuals already enshrined, the Hall of Fame at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum on Main Street continues to celebrate the innovators, rebels, racers, and visionaries who built motorcycle culture as we know it. Tickets for the 2026 Hall of Fame Breakfast are available now through the Museum.